a Maltipoo on a leash, lying on the grass with a gentle look

Introducing the Maltipoo

Find out everything you need to know about the Maltipoo: its characteristics, its behavior, its education, its price.

The Maltipoo

The Maltipoo, a delightful designer dog

a Maltipoo coming out of a wicker basket

The Maltipoo, a cross between a Maltese and a Poodle, originated in the 1990s. This breed is popular in Great Britain for its affectionate nature and hypoallergenic coat.

Loved for their friendly and playful personalities, Maltipoos make ideal companions for families, singles, and seniors. They are intelligent, easy to train, and adaptable to various living situations.

Loyal and affectionate, Maltipoos bond strongly with their owners and are sociable with children, other pets, and strangers. Their friendly demeanor and need for cuddles make them delightful pets.

MALTIPOO FACT FILE

This section outlines the unique characteristics of the Maltipoo breed.

Group

The Maltipoo belongs to the toy and companion group. This group includes small, affectionate dogs bred primarily for companionship. They are known for their friendly and social temperament.

Size

Maltipoos are small dogs. They generally stand between 8 to 14 inches tall and weigh between 5 to 20 pounds.

Coat length

Maltipoos have medium to long coats that are typically curly or wavy. Their fur is soft and often hypoallergenic.

Coat color

Maltipoo coats can vary. They commonly come in colors like white, cream, apricot, and black, often displaying different shades within the same color.

Living environment

Maltipoos adapt well to various living environments, from apartments to houses with yards.

Sociability

Maltipoos are very sociable and friendly. They are great with children and get along well with other pets.

Health

Maltipoos are generally healthy but can be predisposed to allergies and joint issues.

Training

Maltipoos are intelligent and easy to train. They respond best to training with kindness and patience.

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Physical characteristics

The Maltipoo, a charmingly petite companion

Maltipoos are small, well-balanced dogs with a soft, curly, or wavy coat, often seen in colors like white, cream, or apricot. Their expressive eyes and cute button nose give them an endearing appearance.

Size and weight of the Maltipoo

a Maltipoo with white fur and brown ears

Maltipoos are small dogs, with females typically standing between 8 to 12 inches and males between 10 to 14 inches. The typical weight range for female Maltipoos is 5 to 15 pounds, while males usually weigh between 6 to 20 pounds. Maltipoos grow relatively quickly, reaching their full size and weight by around 12 to 18 months of age.

The coat of the Maltipoo

portrait of a Maltipoo tilting its head

Coat length

Maltipoos have medium to long, soft coats that are either curly or wavy.

Coat color

Maltipoo coats come in various colors, including white, cream, apricot, and black.

a Maltipoo at the groomer

Coat care

Maltipoos need regular brushing several times a week to prevent matting. They shed lightly year-round and benefit from professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks.

Other characteristics of the Maltipoo

a Maltipoo sitting

Physical features

The Maltipoo is a balanced, well-proportioned small dog. Its head is rounded with a shorter muzzle. Maltipoos have expressive, dark brown eyes and high-set, floppy ears. Their compact, sturdy body is well-muscled for their size.

Temperament & behavior

What is the temperament of the Maltipoo?

Maltipoos are loyal, affectionate, and friendly, making them gentle and loving companions.

Maltipoo category

a Maltipoo running happily

With around 400 registered dog breeds divided into 10 groups, the Maltipoo, though a hybrid, shares traits with the toy and companion dog group. This group includes small, affectionate breeds like Pomeranians and Shih Tzus. Maltipoos are intelligent, gentle, and excel as loving family pets.

Behavior of the Maltipoo

a Maltipoo opening its mouth playfully

A loving companion

Maltipoos are delightful and easygoing dogs with a friendly, affectionate nature. They are known for their strong bond with their owners, always eager to show love and receive attention. For Maltipoos to thrive, they need a present and attentive owner who can provide the affection and interaction they crave.

a Maltipoo placed in the grass

Sociable and friendly

Maltipoos are highly sociable and generous with their affection. They get along well with people, including strangers, and are great companions for children due to their gentle and playful nature. However, it's crucial to work on their social skills from a young age to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted and friendly dogs.

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The Maltipoo's living environment

a Maltipoo stretching in the grass in the sun

Versatile living

Maltipoos are highly adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, whether in apartments, houses, urban areas, or rural settings. The key to their happiness is the love and attention they receive from their owners. Maltipoos need at least two walks a day, each lasting about 20 to 30 minutes.

Exploring the outdoors

While adaptable to different environments, Maltipoos benefit greatly from having access to an outdoor space where they can satisfy their curiosity and expend energy. Regular outdoor time helps keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Training the Maltipoo

a Maltipoo on his/her owner's thigh

Smart and eager to learn

Maltipoos are intelligent and quick to learn, responding well to positive reinforcement like treats and praise. Incorporating games into training can be effective. Using a GPS collar can help prevent losses or escapes.

a Maltipoo playing with its owner

Excellent listening skills

Maltipoos are attentive and responsive, making them good listeners. Early socialization and consistent training are essential. Despite occasional stubbornness, patience and persistence ensure successful training.

Health & nutrition

How to take care of the Maltipoo

Maltipoos are generally healthy dogs. Daily care, including regular grooming and exercise, is essential to prevent diseases and maintain their well-being.

The health of the Maltipoo

a Maltipoo near its owner

Illnesses

Maltipoos are typically robust but can be prone to dental problems, patellar luxation, and skin allergies. They have a lifespan of 12 to 15 years.

a Maltipoo taking a bath

Routine care

Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, deworming, and parasite treatments are crucial. Daily care includes brushing their coat, cleaning their ears, dental hygiene, and nail trimming. Maltipoos are often hypoallergenic, making them suitable for people with mild allergies.

Feeding the Maltipoo

a Maltipoo drinking a milkshake

Daily requirements

Maltipoos need a balanced diet to stay healthy and strong. Ensure their diet is rich in proteins and vitamins. Premium kibble designed for their breed is ideal. You can supplement with lean white and red meat if more protein is needed, but limit fats to maintain their health.

Breeding or adoption & cost

What does a Maltipoo cost?

Maltipoos are well-regarded with several breeders available. It's important to consider several factors before adopting.

How to choose your Maltipoo

a Maltipoo resting

Finding the right breeder

Before adopting a Maltipoo, there are some important points to consider. First and foremost, you need to check that the breeder is reputable. This means visiting the breeder's premises to assess the living conditions and behavior of the dogs. Responsible breeders will provide transparent information about the puppy's health and any genetic illnesses in its lineage.

Lastly, mandatory electronic identification, like microchipping, is not always mandated at the federal level in the United States for cats and dogs. But microchipping is widely acknowledged as a successful way to permanently identify pets and increase the possibility of reuniting lost pets with their owners, even in the absence of universal regulations. As a pet owner, it is advised to inform yourself about municipal laws to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your pet.

a portrait of a standing Maltipoo

The price of a Maltipoo

Maltipoo puppies typically cost between

and

, depending on factors like lineage, pedigree, and the breeder's reputation. Annual maintenance costs, including veterinary care, grooming, and food, range from

to

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Choosing a dog that matches your personality and lifestyle will ensure your well-being and his!